Photos provided by Positive Grid
Positive Grid has been on the cutting edge of smaller, portable guitar amplifiers with more robust technology to increase the tonal options for guitarists. Now they have introduced their new Spark EDGE smart Amp/PA system. Guitar Thrills got one in for review and here are the details. The Spark EDGE is a 65-watt amp/PA with a built-in looper, 50 effects, 36-amp models with 4 channels and Bluetooth connectivity with the Spark App. It is a multipurpose device that can be utilized as a guitar amp, PA system, personal monitor and more. The bass reflex tilt-back cabinet contains 2-reflex ports, 1 x 6.5” custom designed woofer and a 1” custom designed horn tweeter.
What expands the capabilities of the Spark EDGE beyond the already robust system is the free Spark App designed for android and iOS devices. Beginning instructions suggest that you download the App then pair it with your Spark EDGE by pushing the Bluetooth button on the back of the cab. Virtual effects within the App are Reverbs, Drives, gate, Delay, compression/Wah, Drive and Modulation/EQ. You can save your favorite setups in My ToneCloud and designate them to the preset of your choice. The App also contains a tuner, Apple Music, camera, metronome, jam tracks and tutorials. At the top of the Spark App is your mixer control for the Spark EDGE with sliders like a traditional to adjust the sound levels via Bluetooth.
When you access ToneCloud you have access to other Spark users’ presets and can share the ones you create also. A big win with the Spark EDGE is the integrated top mounted handle for easy carrying, light weight and the tilt-back design. Not only can it handle your vocal microphone needs, but we also tested it with acoustic guitars, electric guitars and bass guitars. The Spark EDGE handled all of them and sounded incredible. The two preset controls, volume controls and music level control are on the top of the amp, while the 3 band EQ and Master volume is on the back above the connections. Connectivity is delivered via Bluetooth, headphone jack and USB-C. XLR and ¼” are accepted with Channels 1 & 2 will while 3 & 4 are ¼” input only. Spark EDGE has stereo and mono ¼” outputs and Midi input on the back panel. The Spark EDGE would certainly work for singer/songwriters, duos, buskers or a small combo. But it is so versatile that it can be utilized as a personal monitor at a big gig or as sound reinforce while you’re in the studio or recording. I have found myself using it for practice purposes. The built-in looper is only for one channel but it can hold 60 seconds of sound, which is a lot of fun. The Spark EDGE is priced at $449, but if you purchase the optional rechargeable battery that is an extra $79 which I would recommend. I hope that Positive Grid offers a cover/gig bag for the Spark EDGE to protect it also. For the price this is a powerful amp and PA system that can serve a multitude of needs for musicians. It sounds great, is light and the Spark App is a powerful tool when paired up with it.
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